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Status

EPA and the PADEP have reviewed available information and have determined that both human exposures to contamination and migration of contaminated groundwater are under control at the Sonneborn facility. The preliminary Remedial Investigation and Risk Assessment (RIRA) report submitted in April 2008 was later withdrawn. A revised RIRA report was submitted in April 2012. This RIRA was placed on hold by PADEP in July 2012 due to substantive deficiencies that are presently being addressed. The revised portions of the RIRA are anticipated to be submitted by March 2013.

Background

Constructed in approximately 1885, the facility's current products include white oils, petrolatums and microcrystalline waxes. The facility is located on Route 268 in Fairview Township, adjacent to the Borough of Petrolia in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Approximately 250 acres in size, the facility lies along the South Branch of Bear Creek.

Contaminants and Risks

This facility is part of the area known as the Bear Creek Area Chemical Sites (BCACS), where primarily site-specific contaminants (i.e. resorcinol, sulfonic acids) have impacted groundwater, which has been prohibited to be used as a drinking water source in several boroughs and two counties in the area. All areas with contamination above levels of concern in the affected zone have been provided access to a public water system for potable use.

Reuse Information

Questions

The EPA is dedicated to providing you with timely and accurate information about our work at this site. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact EPA Project Manager:Mr Griff Miller (215) 814-3407